My brother is finally home! What began as vascular surgery to fix arterial bleeding after a heart catheterization, ended with work on his gall bladder and the discovery that he needed a defibrillator/pacemaker implant. Attending to these two conditions would have occurred much more slowly, painfully, and dangerously had they happened at home. The hospital setting allowed a much more aggressive and expert evaluation and treatment. Thank you for your prayers of restoration.
So, what Paul writes about comfort and what Nouwen writes about joy is particular meaningful as we move through life–we may seek happiness but the deep life lessons come from God’s Presence and comfort in the times we are lifted/carried by His strength through trouble.